Smart Growth

Smart Growth is a planning strategy that promotes sustainable development within communities.  In communities across the nation, there is a concern with the increasing tendency for cities and towns to "sprawl."  Advocates of smart growth are looking to create housing opportunities that:

•  are diverse and pedestrian friendly;

•  encourage community and stakeholder collaboration;

•  foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of    place; 

•  make development decisions predictable, fair and cost effective;

•  promote mixed land uses, preserve open space, farmland, natural areas and critical environmental areas: and

• support a variety of transportation choices. 

Proponents of smart growth advocate comprehensive planning to guide communities.  Click here for NIRPC's "Sensible Tools" guide for implementation of smart growth or sustainable development strategies.

For more information on smart growth check out the following websites:

Smart Growth Online
Smart Growth: EPA